Microsoft has reported that recent updates may disrupt Windows11, impacting key components like the Start menu and Explorer.
Update Effects on Key Components
The issue has surfaced on enterprise environments, primarily targeting devices running Windows11 24H2 or 25H2 with cumulative updates issued since July 2025. The problem causes XAML-dependent apps, including the Start menu, Explorer, Windows Search, and the taskbar, to either crash or not load.
According to Microsoft, this issue is due to a delay in registering XAML packages after updates. Affected users may see black screens or crashes when trying to access basic functions like the Start menu and taskbar.
Workarounds and Future Fixes
Microsoft has not issued an immediate fix. Temporary solutions involve registry edits for virtualized environments or using a PowerShell script to delay Explorer from launching too soon. The company stated that personal devices are unlikely to be affected. The issues are more prevalent when updates occur before first-time login on persistent OS or across multiple users on non-persistent installations like Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI).
Microsoft is actively working on a solution and will provide updates as they become available.
Impacted Users and Mitigation
- The issue affects a limited number of enterprise-managed Windows11 devices.
- Users may experience black screens or crashes upon login due to XAML registration failures.
- Workarounds include Windows registry modifications and PowerShell script adjustments.
- Microsoft is in the process of developing a resolution for the affected installations.
- The problem mainly persists in Virtual Desktop Infrastructure setups after OS installations.
